Field Museum: Chicago’s Legacy Hula exhibit

“Chicago’s Legacy of Hula” is an exhibition at the Field Museum that celebrates the 130-year history of Hula in Chicago. This exhibition, which is included with Basic admission and runs until March 9, 2025, offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Hula, particularly its presence and evolution in Chicago.

Exhibition Highlights:

Kumu Hula: The exhibition focuses on the untold history of four Kumu Hula (master teachers of Hawaiian Hula) who have played a pivotal role in perpetuating, preserving, and protecting Hula as a way of life.

Native Hawaiian Voices: Visitors can listen to the voices of Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) as they narrate their own history and share insights into how their community continues to thrive in Chicago and beyond.

Cultural Artifacts: The exhibition showcases an array of traditional Hawaiian artifacts, including Kāhili (feather royal standards) gifted by descendants of Hawaiian Royalty, traditional lei, instruments, regalia used for Hula, and an Ahu ula (feather cape) that once belonged to King Kamehameha II.

Photography and History: The exhibition features intergenerational photography of Kumu Hula and highlights key moments in the legacy and continuation of Hula in Chicago, such as the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago and visits by Hawaiian royalty.

Significance of the Exhibition:

This exhibition is not just a display of cultural artifacts; it’s a narrative that intertwines the sacred dance and spiritual practice of Hula with the historical events that have shaped its journey. It provides a profound understanding of Hula’s significance beyond performance art, delving into its role as a spiritual and cultural practice.
Collaboration and Development:

“Chicago’s Legacy of Hula” is developed by the Aloha Center of Chicago and the Field Museum, highlighting the collaborative effort to bring this significant aspect of Hawaiian culture to a broader audience.

For more information about visiting the exhibition and to plan your visit to the Field Museum, located at 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605, you can visit their official website.